Businesses burned by freezing cold winter

James “Moose” Werner has seen some bad winters in his more than 30 years running Club Tavern, but he can’t remember one that froze out business like this one.

“This winter sucks. Its the easiest way to put it,” Werner said.

Werner said fewer customers are walking through his doors. He said some of that is due to the economy, but the frigid temperatures certainly haven’t helped.

“Wisconsin people tend to be hearty and tend to come out,” Werner said, “but when you don't have money and you're worried about paying the MGE bill, you stay in.”

Werner said he’s 10% behind what he usually earns in winter, and he knows other businesses feeling the same pressure. He said customers should make an extra effort to spend at family-owned stores and restaurants.

“Just when you get a chance, throw on some extra clothes and come out and help,” Werner said.

Copyright 2014 by Channel 3000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.